Black History Month | Navy Pier

February, 2013

It may be hard for some of our Navy Pier fans to believe, but fifty years ago civil rights, labor, and religious organizations planned a march from the Washington Monument to the Lincoln Memorial in support of jobs and freedom that drew crowds of 200,000 to 300,000 marchers. That march, now commonly known as the March on Washington, is still one of the nation’s largest political rallies and brought about one of history’s most famous speeches, Martin Luther King, Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech.

Fifty years later, we salute the brave leaders and participants of the March on Washington as well as contemporary African Americans who carry on Dr. King’s mission and message of equality for all. And what better time to honor our African American leaders than Black History Month!

Here at the Pier, we’re celebrating Black History Month all February long, but especially this Sunday, February 10 from 1 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. in the Crystal Gardens during Navy Pier presents “I Have A Dream” celebrating Black History Month.

Our special Black History Day celebration will combine music, song, and dance in remembrance of the awe-inspiring March on Washington. We also haven’t forgotten that this year marks the 150th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation—just one more reason to celebrate! Raise your voice in song and dance along to the afternoon’s performances. Check out our Events Schedule below:

You won’t want to miss any of our great entertainment, but especially not Patrick Branch’s rendition of Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream” speech at 3 p.m.; we guarantee you’ll be incredibly moved.

And don’t forget to check out “Perseverance and Persistence – An Exhibition of Pride” in the North Entry of Navy Pier’s Family Pavilion. This beautiful display recognizes African American leaders for their historical and cultural achievements over the past 200 years.

We hope you join us this Sunday for our special celebration and Happy Black History Month!